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Thursday, January 17, 2013

Ackworth Hoard - a preview (we hope!)

A small selection of the treasures of the Ackworth Hoard can now be seen at Pontefract Museum until the end of February. The display includes some of the most important pieces such as the gold ring and the exotic foreign ducatons from the Spanish Netherlands. In all 43 gold and silver coins and the gold ring are on display along with the pot in which they were buried. The whole hoard has 592 gold and silver coins.

A selection of the Ackworth Hoard is now on temporary display at Pontefract Museum

The gold ring is inscribed 'When you see this, remember me'

A special drop-in family workshop will take place at Pontefract Museum on Thursday 21st February (during Half Term). Aimed at families with children aged 2-12, try out your origami, craft and poetry skills to create a ring to rival the Ackworth Hoard ring! No need to book, drop in between 11am and 2.30pm

The earliest dated coin - Edward VI (King from 1547 to 1553)

Charles I halfcrowns

Ducatons

Irish and Scottish coins

Pot with shillings and sixpences

Wakefield Council is trying to save the hoard by raising £54,492 to acquire it for Pontefract Museum. So far the campaign has gone very well and we are getting pretty close having raised just under £40,000. We are still awaiting the results of an application to the Heritage Lottery Fund for another £12,000 towards the acquisition, but we need another £3,000 in local funds.You can help by sending a donation to:The Ackworth HoardPontefract MuseumSalter RowPontefract WF8 1BAPlease make cheques payable to ‘Wakefield Council – Ackworth Hoard’See herefor more information.